Introducing the 11 Best Portable VPN for 2023. As technology advances and our lives become increasingly interconnected, the need for privacy and security online is more crucial than ever. Whether you're traveling, working remotely, or simply browsing the web from a public Wi-Fi hotspot, a portable VPN can be a reliable solution to safeguard your sensitive information. In this article, we will explore the top 11 portable VPN options available in 2023, offering you peace of mind and uninterrupted browsing experiences wherever you go.
Overall Score: 8/10
The GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Router is a compact and versatile router that allows you to convert a public network to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. It is lightweight and pocket-friendly, making it ideal for travel. The router comes with OpenWrt pre-installed and has programmable features such as USB disk extendability and dual Ethernet ports. With an OpenVPN client already installed, it is compatible with over 30 VPN service providers. The GL-MT300N-V2 also has 128MB of RAM, 16MB of Flash ROM, and various ports available for hardware DIY. Overall, it is a powerful and convenient travel router for secure and reliable internet access on the go.
Key Features
- Wireless mobile mini travel router
- Open source & programmable with Open Wrt
- 128MB RAM and extendable storage
- Open VPN client compatible with 30+ providers
- Portable and pocket-friendly design
Specifications
- Dimension: 2.30Lx2.30Wx1.00H
- Size: V2 (MTK7628NN So C)
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Open Wrt pre-installed for advanced customization
- Supports multiple VPN service providers
- Ample RAM for smooth performance
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Limited VPN bandwidth
- Requires external power source
The GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Router is a highly recommended device for frequent travelers seeking secure internet access. With its compact design, OpenWrt support, and compatibility with various VPN service providers, it offers great flexibility and convenience. Although it has some limitations in terms of VPN bandwidth and requiring an external power source, these drawbacks can be easily overlooked considering its portability and powerful performance. Whether you need to convert public networks to private Wi-Fi, extend existing networks, or access VPN services on the go, this mini router is a reliable companion. Overall, it’s an excellent investment for improving internet security and connectivity while traveling.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The GL.iNet GL-AR300M16 Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router is a versatile and compact device that allows you to convert a public or hotel network into a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. It is powered by any laptop USB, power banks, or 5V/2A DC adapters, making it highly portable and ideal for travel. With OpenWrt pre-installed, this router is open source and programmable, allowing for USB disk extension. It also comes with VPN client and server capability, supporting OpenVPN and Wireguard VPN, and is compatible with over 30+ VPN service providers. Additionally, the GL-AR300M16 offers larger storage and extensibility with 128MB RAM and 16MB NOR Flash, as well as dual Ethernet ports and UART and GPIOs for hardware DIY. With its easy installation and packed features, this mini router is a great solution for secure and flexible internet connectivity.
Key Features
- Converts public/hotel networks to private Wi-Fi
- Powered by USB or DC adapters
- Open Wrt pre-installed with USB disk extension
- Supports Open VPN and Wireguard VPN
- 128MB RAM, 16MB NOR Flash, dual Ethernet ports
- Easy installation and packed with features
Specifications
- Color: Black
Pros
- Extremely portable and pocket-friendly
- Open source and programmable
- Compatible with various VPN service providers
- Allows for hardware DIY with larger storage
- Includes USB cable and user manual
Cons
- May not provide full speed connection
- Uses micro USB instead of USB-C
- Limited power capacity for connected devices
- Some users encountered setup difficulties
The GL.iNet GL-AR300M16 Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket Router is an excellent solution for those in need of a secure and flexible Wi-Fi connection. Its compact size and portability make it perfect for travel, and its open-source nature allows for customization and expansion. With the ability to convert public/hotel networks to private Wi-Fi, support for various VPN service providers, and larger storage for hardware DIY, this mini router offers great features. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations in terms of speed and power capacity. Overall, this router provides a convenient and reliable solution for creating a private Wi-Fi network wherever you go.
Overall Score: 8/10
The GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext is a portable mini travel wireless pocket router that offers versatile functionality as a WiFi router, access point, extender, and WDS. It features OpenWrt pre-installed, which allows for open-source customization and programmability. The router includes a USB 2.0 port and can be powered by any laptop USB, power banks, or 5V/2A DC adapters. With its compact and pocket-friendly design, it is ideal for converting public/hotel networks into private Wi-Fi for secure browsing. The GL-AR300M16-Ext supports Tethering and is compatible with various 3G/4G USB modems. It also comes with pre-installed OpenVPN and Wireguard VPN client and server, making it compatible with over 30 VPN service providers. With 128MB RAM and 16MB NOR Flash, it offers larger storage and extensibility. The router is equipped with two Ethernet ports, UART, and GPIOs for hardware DIY. Overall, it is a feature-packed and portable solution for travelers and users in need of a versatile wireless router.
Key Features
- Mini travel router with versatile functionality
- Open Wrt pre-installed for open-source customization
- Supports Tethering and 3G/4G USB modems
- Pre-installed Open VPN and Wireguard VPN
- 128MB RAM, 16MB NOR Flash, and dual Ethernet ports
- Compact and pocket-friendly design
Specifications
- Color: Black
Pros
- Versatile functionality
- Compact and portable design
- Open-source customization
- Pre-installed VPN support
- Larger storage capacity
Cons
- May experience inconsistent throughput performance
- Limited Wi-Fi address mask with GL software
The GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext is a highly versatile and portable wireless pocket router. It offers various functionality including Wi-Fi router, access point, extender, and WDS. With its OpenWrt pre-installed, users can enjoy open-source customization and programmability. The router also supports Tethering and is compatible with 3G/4G USB modems, making it an excellent choice for travelers. Additionally, the pre-installed OpenVPN and Wireguard VPN provide an added layer of security. The compact design and lightweight construction make it highly portable. However, users may experience inconsistent throughput performance, and the Wi-Fi address mask is restricted with the GL software. Overall, the GL.iNet GL-AR300M16-Ext is a feature-packed and reliable option for individuals seeking a versatile wireless router for their travel needs.
Overall Score: 9/10
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router is a powerful and versatile networking device designed for travel and public network use. With Wi-Fi 6 technology, it offers high-speed dual-band connectivity and supports up to 120 simultaneous device connections. It features advanced security measures such as OpenVPN and WireGuard encryption, ensuring fast and secure browsing. The router also allows for easy file sharing with its NAS feature. Running on the latest OpenWrt 21.02 operating system, users can customize and install applications according to their preferences. The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 is the perfect companion for travelers, offering reliable and secure connectivity on the go.
Key Features
- Dual-band Wi-Fi 6 with speeds up to 1800 Mbps
- Supports up to 120 simultaneous device connections
- Advanced security with Open VPN and Wire Guard encryption
- Easy file sharing with NAS feature
- Customizable with Open Wrt 21.02 operating system
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.92Lx3.23Wx1.42H
Pros
- High-speed Wi-Fi 6 connectivity
- Advanced security measures for secure browsing
- Easy file sharing with NAS feature
- Customizable and flexible with Open Wrt OS
Cons
- May overheat and experience performance issues
- Bulky power adapter
The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Gigabit Travel Router is a feature-packed networking device that offers fast and secure connectivity for travelers. With its Wi-Fi 6 technology, advanced security measures, and customizable operating system, it provides a reliable and flexible solution for on-the-go internet needs. While it may experience overheating and performance issues, its overall performance and functionality make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you need to connect multiple devices, share files, or enhance your online security, this travel router has you covered.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The GL.iNet GL-MT1300 (Beryl) VPN Wireless Little Travel Router is a compact and powerful dual-band WiFi router designed for travelers. It offers impressive wireless speeds, support for up to 40 devices, and compatibility with various VPN service providers. The router comes pre-installed with OpenWrt, allowing users to install different applications and customize their setup. With features like Tor service and DNS encryption with Cloudflare, it prioritizes user privacy and security. The GL-MT1300 also provides larger storage options, including a MicroSD slot and USB 3.0 port. Overall, it is a versatile and easy-to-setup travel router that delivers reliable performance and enhanced security.
Key Features
- Dual-band wireless router with impressive Wi Fi speeds
- Support for up to 40 wireless devices simultaneously
- Open VPN, Wire Guard, and Tor pre-installed for enhanced security
- Larger storage options and extensibility with Micro SD slot and USB 3.0 port
- Converts public networks to private Wi-Fi for secure browsing
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- Compact and portable design
- Easy to set up and use
- Excellent wireless signal strength
- Versatile customization options with Open Wrt
- Secure and private browsing with Tor and DNS encryption
Cons
- Some features may not be fully optimized
- Requires occasional router reset when changing locations
The GL.iNet GL-MT1300 (Beryl) VPN Wireless Little Travel Router is a reliable and feature-packed option for travelers who prioritize security and convenience. With impressive WiFi speeds, support for multiple devices, and pre-installed VPN protocols, it ensures a smooth and protected browsing experience. The device’s compact size makes it easy to carry, and the user-friendly interface simplifies the setup process. While there are some minor drawbacks such as certain features not being fully optimized, overall, the GL-MT1300 offers great value for its price. Whether you need a secure connection for work or want to access geo-restricted content while traveling, this travel router is a dependable choice.
Overall Score: 8/10
The TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router is the perfect companion for travelers who need a reliable and convenient Wi-Fi network on the go. It features a travel-sized design that is small and light, making it easy to pack and take with you wherever you go. With dual-band AC750 Wi-Fi, you can enjoy a strong and fast connection for HD streaming on all your devices. The router supports multiple modes, including hotspot, bridge, range extender, access point, and client modes, making it versatile for use at home, in hotel rooms, or on the road. It also has a built-in USB 2.0 port and flexible power options, such as using a micro USB port to an adapter, portable charger, or laptop. With an industry-leading 2-year warranty and unlimited 24/7 technical support, you can trust in the reliability of this travel router.
Key Features
- Travel Sized Design: Conveniently small and light
- Dual Band AC750 Wi-Fi: Strong, fast connection for HD streaming
- One Switch for Multiple Modes: Perfect for Wi-Fi at home or on the road
- Flexible Power: Micro USB port for various power options
- Industry leading 2 year warranty and unlimited 24/7 technical support
Specifications
- Color: White
- Dimension: 2.64Lx2.91Wx0.87H
- Size: AC750
Pros
- Convenient and compact design for portability
- Strong and fast Wi-Fi connection for HD streaming
- Versatile with multiple modes for different needs
- Flexible power options for on-the-go use
- Reliable with a 2-year warranty and 24/7 support
Cons
- Short USB power cable connection issue reported
- Low power CPU with limited Ethernet and USB capabilities
- Some issues with client mode connection to certain networks
The TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router is a highly versatile and reliable travel companion for those in need of a portable Wi-Fi solution. Its compact design, strong dual-band AC750 Wi-Fi, and multiple modes make it suitable for various situations, whether you’re at home, in a hotel room, or on the road. The flexibility in power options adds to its convenience. While it may have some minor drawbacks like the reported USB power cable connection issue and limited CPU capabilities, its overall performance and value make it a worthwhile investment. With a competitive score of 8, this travel router earns its place as a top choice for travelers seeking reliable Wi-Fi connectivity on the go.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a powerful and compact wireless VPN encrypted travel router. It offers dual-band network with wireless speeds of 400Mbps(2.4G) and 867Mbps(5G) and is compatible with tethering. With the latest OpenWrt 21.02 operating system, the router allows for customization and application installations. It comes with pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard for easy VPN client and server setup, providing added security for your internet connections. The GL-A1300 also supports network storage, allowing you to create a private network storage with an external USB hard drive. It is small and lightweight, making it perfect for travel and use in various public places. The router offers features like VPN internet kill switch, separate private and guest Wi-Fi networks, and encrypted DNS with Cloudflare for enhanced security. Overall, the GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a versatile travel router with powerful features and easy setup.
Key Features
- Dual-band network with wireless speeds of 400Mbps(2.4G) and 867Mbps(5G)
- Customizable and programmable with Open Wrt 21.02 operating system
- Pre-installed Open VPN and Wire Guard for VPN client and server setup
- Network storage support for creating a private storage network
- Compact and lightweight design for easy travel and use in public places
- VPN internet kill switch for all internet traffic
- Separate private and guest Wi-Fi networks for increased security
- Encrypted DNS with Cloudflare for privacy and security
Specifications
- Dimension: 4.65Lx3.35Wx1.18H
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Powerful VPN functionality
- Compact and portable design
- Customizable and programmable
- Supports network storage
Cons
- Limited Wire Guard speeds
- May experience occasional hiccups with 5G
- Compatibility issues with some devices
The GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a highly versatile and reliable travel router. It offers excellent wireless speeds, powerful VPN functionality, and a range of security features. The ability to customize and program the router based on personal preferences is a major advantage. The compact design and portability make it convenient for travel and use in various public places. While there may be occasional hiccups with the 5G connection and some compatibility issues with certain devices, overall, the GL-A1300 delivers outstanding performance and security. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or simply looking to enhance your internet security at home, the GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) is a top choice for a wireless VPN encrypted travel router.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The PFFY 2 Packs 10 RIBS Travel Umbrella is a compact and lightweight umbrella perfect for travel and everyday use. With its 10-RIB windproof construction, this umbrella can withstand powerful gusts without turning inside out. It features an auto open/close function for easy use and can be easily stored in purses, briefcases, backpacks, and more. Made of high-quality materials, including a chrome-plated metal shaft and strong metal frame, this umbrella offers great stability in high winds. It is also windproof and waterproof, thanks to its 210T pongee fabric. With two umbrellas included in the pack, it offers great value for money. Perfect for men, women, teens, and kids.
Key Features
- Get TWO HIGH Quality umbrellas for LESS money
- 10-RIB windproof construction
- Auto open/close function
- Collapsible and lightweight design
- Windproof and waterproof 210T pongee fabric
Specifications
- Color: Black + Blue
- Ribs: 10
- Size: 46 inch
Pros
- Durable with spring action
- Compact and sturdy
- Perfect for unexpected weather
- Easy to use and store
Cons
- Difficult to close for some people
- Sheath is useless
The PFFY 2 Packs 10 RIBS Travel Umbrella is a reliable and affordable option for anyone in need of a compact and windproof umbrella. With its 10-RIB construction and high-quality materials, it provides durability and stability even in strong winds. The auto open/close function and collapsible design make it convenient to use and store. While the closing mechanism may require some effort for certain individuals, the overall performance and value of this umbrella are commendable. With positive customer reviews and a competitive price point, it is a practical choice for both personal use and gifting. Stay protected from the rain with the PFFY 2 Packs 10 RIBS Travel Umbrella.
Overall Score: 8/10
The GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) Secure Travel WiFi Router is a compact and lightweight router designed for travel. It features AC1200 dual-band wireless technology, allowing for simultaneous dual-band connections with wireless speeds up to 300 Mbps (2.4GHz) and 867 Mbps (5GHz). The router also offers full gigabit ports, including 2 LAN ports and 1 WAN port, making it ideal for connecting wired devices. With support for IPv6, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Tor service, this router ensures a secure internet experience. It can also function as a repeater for public WiFi networks, creating a private and secure connection. Overall, the GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) is a great option for travelers who need a reliable and secure WiFi router.
Key Features
- AC1200 dual-band wireless technology
- Compact and lightweight design
- Full gigabit ports for wired device connections
- Supports IPv6, Open VPN, Wire Guard, and Tor service
- Can function as a repeater for public Wi Fi networks
Specifications
- Color: Opal
Pros
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for travel
- Fast and reliable dual-band wireless connection
- Full gigabit ports for wired device connectivity
- Strong security features like IPv6 support and VPN compatibility
- Can extend public Wi Fi networks for secure surfing
Cons
- Lack of visual feedback on device status
- Instructions for setting up as a bridge could be clearer
- Occasional difficulty in connecting to certain networks
The GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) is a highly versatile and secure travel WiFi router. Its compact size and lightweight design make it convenient for travelers, while its powerful features, such as dual-band wireless technology and gigabit ports, ensure fast and reliable connectivity. The router’s support for IPv6, OpenVPN, WireGuard, and Tor service provides advanced security for internet browsing. Additionally, its ability to function as a repeater for public WiFi networks adds an extra layer of privacy. Although the device lacks visual feedback and may have some setup challenges, overall, it is a reliable and effective solution for travelers in need of a secure WiFi router.
Overall Score: 8/10
The GlocalMe U3 Mobile Hotspot is a wireless portable WiFi device designed specifically for travel. With no SIM card needed, it offers instant domestic and international data by paying online. Its intelligent network selection feature utilizes patent Cloud SIM technology to switch networks dynamically, ensuring fast and stable 4G internet connectivity in 140+ countries. The device also supports a SIM card slot, providing the option to use any SIM card. It offers private and safe WiFi connections, with self-identified SSID Name and Password via a web portal. The GlocalMe App allows users to effectively manage data usage and connect up to 10 devices simultaneously. The U3 Mobile Hotspot features a long-lasting battery life of up to 13 hours, making it perfect for travel, business, camping, and more. Overall, it offers excellent performance and flexibility for global connectivity.
Key Features
- No SIM needed, intelligent network selection
- No contract, no roaming fees
- Private and safe Wi Fi
- Shareable Wi Fi and flexible plans
- Excellent performance & after-sales service
Specifications
- Color: U3 Black
Pros
- No need for a SIM card
- Smart network selection for better signal
- Flexible data plans and shareable Wi Fi
- Long-lasting battery for extended use
Cons
- Some users find Wi Fi service expensive
- Speed may be slower compared to other devices
The GlocalMe U3 Mobile Hotspot is an excellent companion for travelers who need reliable and fast internet connectivity in over 140 countries. Its unique feature of no SIM card requirement sets it apart from other devices, allowing users to easily access data by paying online. The device provides secure and private WiFi connections, ensuring the safety of your data while traveling. With the ability to share WiFi with up to 10 devices and flexible data plans, it offers great convenience for group travel or business purposes. The U3 also comes with a long-lasting battery, making it ideal for remote locations or extended trips. Despite some users finding the WiFi service expensive, this portable WiFi hotspot is a reliable and efficient choice for global connectivity.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The LANBRELLA Compact Reverse Folding Umbrella is a unique travel umbrella designed with an inverted folding mechanism. This innovative design keeps the wet part of the umbrella inside, preventing water from dripping and keeping you dry when getting in and out of the car. The umbrella is windproof and waterproof, with reinforced fiberglass ribs and a high-density waterproof canopy. It is compact, portable, and easy to carry, making it ideal for travel, business, camping, and daily use. The umbrella features convenient auto open/close functionality, allowing for quick and easy operation. It comes with a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
Score: 8.5/10
Key Features
- Unique inverted folding design
- Superior windproof and waterproof
- Compact, portable, and easy carrying
- Convenient auto open/close in one second
- Lifetime warranty
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 41.00Lx0.01Wx24.00H
- Size: 46 INCH
Pros
- Unique inverted folding design
- Windproof and waterproof
- Compact and portable
- Convenient auto open/close
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Mechanism can shoot water when closing
- Longer length could be inconvenient
- Quality concerns with strap durability
- Questionable windproof claim
The LANBRELLA Compact Reverse Folding Umbrella offers a unique and practical design for those in need of a reliable travel umbrella. Its inverted folding mechanism keeps the wet part inside, preventing water from dripping and providing added convenience. The umbrella is windproof and waterproof, making it suitable for various weather conditions. It is compact and lightweight, perfect for travel and everyday use. The convenient auto open/close feature further enhances its usability. While there may be some concerns regarding the quality of certain components and the overall windproof claim, the umbrella’s lifetime warranty provides reassurance. Overall, the LANBRELLA Compact Reverse Folding Umbrella is a worthy investment for anyone seeking a reliable and stylish travel companion.
Buyer's Guide: Portable VPN
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Why You Need a Portable VPN
In today's digital age, protecting your online privacy and security has become more important than ever. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a remote worker, or simply someone who frequently connects to public Wi-Fi networks, a portable VPN can be an invaluable tool. Here's why you should consider investing in one:
- Secure Your Internet Connection: A portable VPN creates a secure tunnel for your online traffic, encrypting it and protecting it from potential hackers or malicious entities.
- Protect Your Confidential Data: By using a portable VPN, you can safeguard sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and personal files from falling into the wrong hands.
- Access Geo-Restricted Content: If you frequently encounter region-blocked websites or content, a portable VPN can help you bypass these restrictions, allowing you to enjoy a truly global internet experience.
- Anonymity and Privacy: With a portable VPN, you can maintain your online anonymity by masking your IP address and preventing your internet service provider or any prying eyes from tracking your online activities.
- No More Censorship: Be it government-imposed censorship or workplace restrictions, a portable VPN empowers you to overcome these limitations and access the internet without any restrictions.
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Factors to Consider Before Buying a Portable VPN
When choosing a portable VPN, there are a few essential factors to keep in mind. Consider the following aspects before making your purchase:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the portable VPN you choose is compatible with all your devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and routers.
- Ease of Use: Look for a portable VPN that offers user-friendly interfaces and simple setup processes. You don't want to spend ages configuring your VPN while on the go.
- Server Locations: Check if the portable VPN has a wide range of server locations around the world. The more server options available, the better your chances of bypassing geo-restrictions.
- Connection Speed: A VPN's connection speed can significantly impact your browsing experience. Look for a portable VPN that offers fast and reliable connections without compromising security.
- Logging Policy: Carefully review the VPN provider's logging policy to ensure they have a strict no-logs policy. This ensures that your online activities are not recorded or stored.
- Customer Support: In case you encounter any issues while using your portable VPN, it's important to have access to reliable customer support. Look for providers that offer 24/7 assistance.
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Frequently Asked Questions about 11 Best Portable VPN For 2023
Most portable VPNs are compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and routers. However, it’s essential to check the VPN’s supported platforms before purchasing.
Yes, using a portable VPN is legal in most countries. However, it’s important to note that while VPNs are legal, their usage can be subject to some restrictions. Always ensure that you comply with the laws of the country you are in.
While it is common for VPNs to slightly decrease internet speed due to the encryption process, the impact is usually minimal. Opting for a high-quality portable VPN will help maintain a fast and reliable connection.
Yes, many portable VPNs allow you to access geo-restricted streaming content by connecting to servers in different countries. However, it’s important to check if a VPN specifically supports streaming platforms or has server locations in the desired region.
Setting up a portable VPN is typically a straightforward process. Most VPN providers offer dedicated apps for different devices, allowing you to easily install and configure the VPN. Additionally, they provide step-by-step instructions to guide you through the setup process.
